According to WHO, reproductive health is a comprehensive condition of physical, mental, and social well-being, it doesn’t mean just the absence of disease or infirmity. Rather it means in all aspects connected to the reproductive system and its functions and processes.
Access to comprehensive sex education prepares individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Here are some reproductive health issues that can turn serious:
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are illnesses transmitted from person to person through sexual contact. These infections can cause a wide range of symptoms, from minor to severe. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes, HIV/AIDS, and syphilis.
You can prevent transmission of STIs by practising safe sex, which includes using condoms, and limiting your sexual partners. It is also important to be tested regularly for STIs and to inform any sexual partner of any positive test results.
Unintended Pregnancy
Unintended pregnancy is one that is not planned or wanted at the time of conception. It can be an unplanned or unwanted pregnancy that resulted from unprotected intercourse, contraceptive failure, or when a person is not using any form of birth control. There are various causes of unintended pregnancy, including lack of access to contraception, lack of knowledge about contraception methods, and incorrect or inconsistent use of contraception.
Unintended pregnancy can be prevented by increasing access to contraceptive methods, providing accurate and comprehensive sex education, and promoting healthy relationships.
Also read: 5 Best Male Fertility Supplements To Preserve Reproductive Health
It is important for individuals to be aware of their options and to use effective contraception when engaging in sexual activity. Access to safe and legal abortion services is also important for individuals who experience an unintended pregnancy.
Cervical Cancer
This type of cancer affects the cervix, the entrance to the uterus from the vagina. It is the second most common type of cancer in women worldwide. Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer.
Most cases of cervical cancer are preventable. Cervical cancer can be prevented by the HPV vaccine, as it prevents infection with the virus that causes it. Other prevention methods include regular Pap smears, which can detect precancerous changes in the cervix, and screening for high-risk HPV.
Postpartum Depression
This type of depression affects women after they have given birth to a child. It is thought to be caused by hormonal changes, physical and emotional stress, and lack of sleep. Symptoms of postpartum depression can include sadness, anxiety, guilt, and irritability. Other symptoms may include fatigue, appetite changes, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty bonding with the baby.
Also read: Endometriosis Awareness Month: How Endometriosis Affects Reproductive Health
Postpartum depression can affect a woman for certain weeks and interfere with her ability to care for herself and her baby.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is caused by an imbalance in the hormones produced by the ovaries, which can lead to symptoms such as irregular menstrual periods, excessive hair growth, and acne. PCOS can also cause infertility, obesity, and an increased risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
According to research, it is believed to be linked to insulin resistance, when the body does not respond properly to the hormone insulin. This can lead to high levels of the male hormones androgens, which can cause the symptoms of PCOS.
